Understanding Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction is a serious problem in the United States. While marijuana is often seen as a relatively harmless drug, it can lead to physical and psychological dependence in some individuals. For those struggling with marijuana addiction, seeking professional help is an excellent first step on the road to recovery.

At Isaiah House, we understand the complexities of addiction and are here to help. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction, the risks associated with it, and the treatment options available.

What is Marijuana?

Marijuana is a psychoactive drug derived from the cannabis plant. It contains THC, the active ingredient that produces its mind-altering effects. People use marijuana recreationally for its euphoric and relaxing effects, as well as medically to help with certain conditions such as chronic pain and nausea.

Marijuana can be consumed in many forms, including smoking it in joints or pipes, vaping it with special devices, eating edibles made with marijuana extracts, and taking capsules or tinctures.

Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction is often difficult to recognize because it can look different from person to person. Some of the common signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction include:

  • A strong craving for marijuana
  • Difficulty controlling how much and how often marijuana is used
  • Withdrawal symptoms when not using marijuana
  • Spending a lot of time trying to obtain and use marijuana
  • Neglecting important activities or responsibilities in favor of using marijuana
  • Using marijuana despite it causing problems in relationships

Risks Associated With Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana addiction can have serious consequences. Some of the risks associated with marijuana addiction include:

  • Increased risk of mental health problems
  • Impaired memory and concentration
  • Increased risk of respiratory problems
  • Increased risk of motor vehicle accidents
  • Increased risk of developing other addictions

One major risk with marijuana use, in general, is that the drug could be laced with deadly fentanyl. Drug dealers add this narcotic to other drugs, including marijuana,  to enhance the “high” that users experience. Even a very small dose of fentanyl can be lethal.

Marijuana as a Gateway Drug

While marijuana is often seen as a relatively harmless drug, it can lead to more serious substance abuse. Research has found that marijuana use increases the likelihood of using other drugs such as cocaine and heroin. This phenomenon is known as the “gateway effect,” which suggests that people who use marijuana are more likely to try other drugs.

The exact cause of the gateway effect is not completely understood, but some factors may play a role. People who use marijuana may develop a tolerance for its effects and seek out stronger substances in order to experience the same high. Additionally, those who purchase marijuana from dealers may also have access to harder drugs like heroin or cocaine.

It is important to understand that marijuana addiction can be just as serious and damaging as any other form of substance abuse.

Treatment Options for Marijuana Addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana addiction, there is help available. Some of the treatment options for marijuana addiction include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thought and behavior patterns. CBT is used by clinicians as a part of our holistic, comprehensive program.
  • Peer Support Classes: In these classes, peer support specialists teach classes sharing their personal experiences with addiction. They work with the clients on a personal level to support them throughout their treatment experience.
  • Group Therapy: Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy that involves talking with other people who are struggling with similar issues.
  • Support Groups: Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and learn from one another.

We offer all these treatment options and more at Isaiah House. We use these to help individuals struggling with marijuana addiction and other substance use disorders. These treatments are administered and overseen by our team of healthcare professionals and addiction specialists.

How to Support a Loved One Struggling With Marijuana Addiction

When supporting someone struggling with marijuana addiction, it is important to help them remember that they are not alone in this battle. Providing support and understanding while also recognizing the need for boundaries and limits is essential. This can be done by listening without judgment, being patient, offering encouragement, and pointing them to resources such as therapy or support groups.

Additionally, it is important to understand that recovery takes time and progress will likely not happen overnight—try to be there for your loved one through every step of their journey towards sobriety.

Addiction Treatment at Isaiah House

Isaiah House is a  non-profit addiction treatment center. We provide a comprehensive, dual diagnosis, faith-based program that focuses on a proven pathway to achieve a lifetime of recovery.

We treat the whole person with a holistic approach that addresses the spiritual, physical, mental, financial, legal, and educational aspects of our clients’ lives. Our clients receive individual and group therapy, peer support classes, life skills classes, parenting classes, and vocational training while they’re in treatment. Our program is unique among other treatment models by guaranteeing employment opportunities after 90 days of treatment.

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Where physical, spiritual, educational, and financial needs are addressed with a Christian approach for long-lasting recovery.

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